As illustrated in the digest of official church body actions
found in Appendix A, the ELCA has called on both parties in the
conflict to adhere to international law and human rights
conventions, including the protection and preservation of
internationally recognized human rights. It has called for
continued U.S. leadership in support of the Road Map for Peace,
including support for an end to terrorist attacks and all other
forms of violent conflict, as well as for a viable, contiguous,
independent Palestinian state and a secure Israel. The ELCA has
urged U.S. leaders to seek an immediate cease-fire and stronger
U.S. diplomatic pressure on all groups that wish to destabilize
the region or otherwise promote violence. Other steps which
have been named include 1) facilitating the withdrawal of Israeli
forces from Palestinian-controlled areas; 2) bringing about an
end to the occupation; 3) establishing an international presence
in Jerusalem, the West Bank, and Gaza; and 4) advocating for an
end to the separation wall’s construction and, ultimately, for a
shared Jerusalem.

3. U.S. Foreign Assistance.

To advance these objectives, the ELCA has focused
attention on the use of U.S. tax dollars for foreign assistance.
The ELCA has stated that such aid must be related to the
willingness of nations in the Middle East to negotiate with one
another in good faith. Specifically, the ELCA has urged 1) that
no U.S. funds be used for military assistance; 2) called for a
freeze on all Israeli settlement activity; 3) opposed further
housing loan guarantees to Israel unless and until the
construction and expansion of settlements in the occupied
territories is stopped; and 4) opposed moving the U.S. embassy
in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.